Feminism in Finnish Print Media, 1968-1985

"Diving deep into the intricate tapestry of Finnish feminism, this compelling book examines how print media transmitted, shaped, and challenged perceptions of women's liberation from 1968 to 1985. Through meticulous analysis of journalistic practices and transnational influences, Heidi Kurvinen unveils how media coverage framed and debated women's liberation, defining its relevance in Finland. Ultimately, the book highlights the media's pivotal role in defining feminism's contours in Finland, and in doing so, offers invaluable lessons for understanding global feminist movements."
— Kaitlynn Mendes, Professor of Sociology, Western University, Canada

This book focuses on the discussion of the women’s liberation movement and feminism in Finnish print media between 1968 and 1985. By analysing this topic, the book demonstrates that a relatively well-developed state of gender equality in a society does not necessarily result in fertile ground for feminist activism. On the contrary, it may hinder the success of more radical claims presented by feminists, and mass media serves as a central player in this. Consequently, the book enhances our understanding of the mechanisms that prevent societies from reaching complete equality, and it shows how cultural specificities influence the ways in which transnational ideas of feminism are adopted in a local context. This is shown by analysing the dialogic relationship between journalists and feminist activists as well as the mediated negotiations of the meanings of feminism within the women’s movement.

Dr. Heidi Kurvinen is a historian who is affiliated with Cultural History at the University of Turku, Finland. She has specialised in contemporary media and gender history and has published extensively on these topics relating to Finland and, to lesser extent, the wider Nordic region.